Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy to honor late President Jimmy Carter at fundraiser

The Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy (CNPC), a nonprofit and philanthropic partner of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area (CRNRA), will honor former President Jimmy Carter posthumously with the Hightower Award at its upcoming “Party for the Park” fundraiser.

The award, named after Jerry Hightower (a longtime CRNRA park ranger), commemorates individuals who make substantial contributions to the Georgia-based park and its community.

As an advocate for environmental conservation, President Carter is renowned for signing the legislation that made Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area a part of the National Park Service back in 1978.

According to CNPC, Carter’s “commitment to public lands and environmental stewardship” left a “profound impact on Georgia and beyond.”

“President Jimmy Carter’s vision and leadership were instrumental in the creation of CRNRA,” said CNPC Board President Peter Coffman. “His dedication to conservation and public lands has left an incredible legacy, not just for our park here in Georgia, but across the country. It is a great honor to recognize him with the Hightower Award and to celebrate the impact he has had on preserving the places we cherish.”

Serving as CNPC’s largest annual fundraiser, Party for the Park is “a celebration of the community’s commitment to preserving and enhancing CRNRA,” according to the nonprofit.

This year’s event will feature hors d’oeuvres and drinks for guests, several guest speakers and a silent auction, with proceeds going towards CRNRA initiatives such as trail rehabilitation, habitat restoration and community engagement.

“This park is a place of adventure, reflection, and connection, and we all have a role in keeping it thriving. The funds we raise go right back into the trails we hike, the waterways we paddle and the habitats that make this place so special.” said Brittany Jones, executive director of CNPC.

The fundraiser event takes place on March 25, 2025 and will be held at Ivy Hall in Roswell Mill, near Vickery Creek — a part of the national park system that Carter helped establish, according to CNPC.

Tickets for the event are available on the Chattahoochee National Park Conservancy website.

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